Facebook Use and Texting Among African American and Hispanic Teenagers

Abstract

The present study explores the usage and attitude toward Facebook and text messaging among African American and Hispanic teenagers. It also examines the influence of personality and gender on the new communication technologies. The study further investigates the status of parental monitoring and control. Finally, it examines the possible effect of the new communication tools on the teens’ academic performance. A total of 314 middle and high school students participated in the survey. Nearly 91% had Facebook account and 84% of the students owned cell phone. Fewer Hispanic students own cell phones compared with African American students. There was significant relationship between Facebook use and anxiety, while cell phone owners perceived themselves as more outgoing, cheerful, and sensitive. A significant proportion of teenagers indicated that their cell phone was inextricably wrapped with their identity and even their sense of self-worth. Results from the survey suggested a statistically significant, negative relationship between Facebook activity and math grades of the respondents. Implications for future research on the potential effects of excessive use of Facebook and cell phones on the academic performance are discussed.